Refrigerator Food Storage Tips

Correct Refrigerator Temperature Settings

In this section you will find some food storage, refrigerator maintenance and usage tips.

Correct refrigerator temperature settings
Many people ask themselves:
“What is the correct refrigerator temperature setting?”
If fresh food and freezer parts of your refrigerator have separate temperature controls, the answer is simple:
Set the refrigerator part to 38 degrees Fahrenheit (3°C) and freezer part to 0 degrees Fahrenheit (-18°C).

Bacteria grows most rapidly between 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4°C) and 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60°C). Zero degrees Fahrenheit (-18°C) is the temperature, suitable for long term frozen items preservation.

If your refrigerator only has a single temperature control, try setting the dial to a medium setting first. Measure the temperature - fresh food compartment temperature should not be higher than 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4°C).
There is usually also a temperature balance control to direct more or less cold air from the freezer to the fridge section. It may be controlled by a knob or by a sliding panel of some sort. Look for something which will control this air flow in your refrigerator.

Refrigerator Food Storage tips
Wrap refrigerated food in plastic wrap, foil, plastic bags or airtight containers to keep them from drying out. This is especially important if your refrigerator has automatic defrosting function and/or humidity control.

Wrap frozen items in freezer quality wrap, plastic bags or sealed containers. This will keep food from drying up and prevent odor cross contamination of different food items.

Label contents and storage date on the containers.

Wash and dry fresh vegetables. Store them in air tight bags or plastic containers.

Wash and dry fresh fruit; store aromatic fruits (peaches, strawberries,...) in plastic bags or containers.

Store fresh foods, dairy and deli products in appropriate compartments to keep them fresh. Those compartments maintain proper temperature and humidity levels.

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